Solomon Burke
They don't call Solomon Burke the King of Rock 'n' Soul for nothing. The preaching style he pioneered on such '60s classics as "If You Need Me" and "Cry to Me" not only became a cornerstone of soul music but also influenced many rockers—most notably the Rolling Stones, who covered several of his songs early in their career. And, as evidenced by his powerful new album, this father of 21 children is still going strong. (Guess you can also call him "the George Foreman of Soul")
While Burke is strictly an old-school soul man (anytime he says "use me," you can bet it'll be followed by "abuse me"), the present gospel-friendly R&B climate should welcome such offerings as the sensual "You're the One" and the wistful "It's So Hard." Throw in "Today Is Your Birthday," a bluesy shuffle, and a stand-out, driving duet with Little Richard ("Everybody's Got a Game"), and all you can say is, Long live the King. (Pointblank)
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